A brutal assault caught on camera is being described as the worst thing ever seen on a rugby pitch.

Rugby isn't exactly known for its gentle, non-contact nature.

But the on-field action from a university game takes things to a new level, leaving a player unconscious and needing facial reconstruction surgery.

Police in the United States released footage which appears to show an Arizona State University rugby player kicking a University of Arizona player in the face during a game on February 25, reports Wales Online .

In the footage Christopher Crawford walks up to Douglas Neary, who was bending over tying his boot lace, and delivers a hard kick to the side of his face.

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Just after the incident, the University of Arizona released a statement that read:

“We are saddened by the unfortunate events which left one of our rugby players injured at the hands of a competitor. Our goal is to provide a competitive environment focused on good sportsmanship. This incident is an egregious exception. Our thoughts now are with our student and his full recovery.”

A spokesperson for Arizona State University said the entire club rugby coaching staff was fired as a result. USA Rugby also temporarily suspended the club.